Government also plans independent OTT platform to promote Pakistani films and dramas worldwide
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has announced that Pakistan has initiated discussions with Netflix and other leading global over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms to expand the international presence of Pakistani films and television productions.
Sharing the development on X, formerly Twitter, the minister said the government aims to establish long-term partnerships that will create sustainable opportunities for Pakistani creators while increasing global access to locally produced entertainment.
He said Pakistani dramas and films continue to receive widespread appreciation from international audiences and possess significant export potential. According to the minister, the creative and cultural industry has become a key pillar of the government’s Uraan Pakistan initiative, which seeks to strengthen non-traditional exports.
Government seeks fair representation
Ahsan Iqbal said regional political factors have limited the visibility of Pakistani productions on major international streaming platforms despite their popularity in many countries.
He added that ongoing discussions with Netflix and other global streaming services are intended to secure equitable representation for Pakistani content and improve opportunities for local filmmakers, producers and artists to reach worldwide audiences.
The minister stressed that expanding digital distribution channels would help strengthen Pakistan’s creative economy while increasing the global recognition of its entertainment industry.
Independent platform also under development
In addition to engaging with international streaming companies, the government is working on developing Pakistan’s own independent OTT platform to showcase local stories, films and television productions globally.
According to the minister, the proposed platform will provide an additional avenue for Pakistani creators while promoting the country’s cultural identity and creative talent beyond traditional markets.
He said the twin strategy of partnering with established global platforms and launching a domestic streaming service aims to position Pakistan as a stronger exporter of entertainment content, creating long-term growth opportunities for the country’s film and television industry while supporting local artists and production houses.
